Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama has ordered an immediate ban on international travel for members of the boards of directors of state-owned enterprises and public institutions, citing the growing financial burden of such trips on public funds.
The directive, issued by the presidency and signed by the president’s secretary Callistus Mahama, prohibits board members from undertaking overseas travel for training programs, seminars, conferences or study visits funded directly or indirectly with public resources.
Authorities say the decision follows concerns that the increasing frequency of these trips, often involving multiple participants and extended itineraries, has significantly increased expenses related to airfare, accommodation, allowances and logistics.
The presidency acknowledged the value of international exposure and professional development but stressed the need for stricter budget discipline amid broader efforts to manage public spending.
Under the directive, ministers have been instructed to ensure that boards concentrate on their governance and oversight roles while carefully evaluating the necessity and cost-effectiveness of any training or capacity-building initiative.
Exceptions may only be granted in rare cases where international participation is considered essential and cannot be conducted locally or virtually, with prior approval required from the presidency through the relevant minister.
